Star Gazing: Neil Patrick Harris to return as host of Tonys

Friday

May 10, 2013 at 2:00 AM

Neil Patrick Harris will be back for his fourth turn as host of the Tony Awards.

Neil Patrick Harris will be back for his fourth turn as host of the Tony Awards.

The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, joint producers of the show that honors the best of Broadway, said Thursday the 67th annual awards will be broadcast live by CBS from Radio City Music Hall June 9.

In a statement, Harris said he was excited to be back hosting the Tonys, adding, "The show will rock!" Harris previously hosted the Tonys last year and in 2009 and 2011.

Last year's telecast at the intimate Beacon Theatre was seen by 6 million viewers, down significantly from 2011's 6.9 million. It was also the second-lowest ratings for the Tony Awards since 1988, though it was up against the season finale of AMC's "Mad Men."

The 39-year-old Harris has starred in three Broadway productions, including "Assassins," "Proof," opposite Anne Heche, and as the exuberant master of ceremonies in "Cabaret." He currently stars as dapper ladies' man Barney Stinson on CBS' sitcom hit "How I Met Your Mother."

Usher will be the spark for Macy's Fourth of July fireworks show.

The Grammy-winning singer will collaborate with Macy's to curate the concept, music and design for the fireworks, which will be launched from barges off Manhattan.

It's the first time the company has worked with an artist on the concept for its annual show, Macy's said Thursday.

Usher will score the music for "It Begins With a Spark," which will feature his songs, as well as songs and hits from Rihanna, Swedish House Mafia, Jimi Hendrix and Frank Sinatra.

The 37th annual Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks display will air after the annual concert on NBC. Performers haven't been announced.